Darden names interim CEO

ORLANDO, Fla. — Two months after hiring a search firm to find a new chief executive officer, Darden Restaurants Inc. has found its man — at least temporarily. The restaurant chain said its board of directors has named Gene Lee as interim CEO. Lee, who previously was president and chief operating officer, succeeds Clarence Otis, who has stepped down as CEO, effective immediately. Otis previously had said he would step down no later than Dec. 31.

“The new board and I have appreciated the energy and attitude from within the organization,” said Jeffrey Smith, who has been appointed independent non-executive chairman of the board. “Gene has proven to be an outstanding leader at Darden, and we are excited to work closely with him as our interim chief executive officer. The board’s search committee will conduct a full search for the next CEO of Darden, which will include both internal and external candidates.”

Lee said he was “thrilled” with the opportunity provided by the board to lead Darden.

“Our teams are energized and looking with optimism at the opportunities ahead,” he said. “Everyone at Darden is focused on delivering an outstanding experience to every guest, every time, and with that level of commitment, our company will succeed.”

Comment on this Article

The views expressed in the comments section of Meat and Poultry News do not reflect those of Meat and Poultry News or its parent company, Sosland Publishing Co., Kansas City, Mo. Concern regarding a specific comment may be registered with the Editor by clicking the Report Abuse link.
Enter code as it is shown (required):